Caring for Your Contacts

Proper cleaning and care of contact lenses may prevent eye infections and injury

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned consumers to be cautious when caring for their contact lenses. This is particularly important when using contact solution that contains hydrogen peroxide.

Contact solutions that contain hydrogen peroxide are free of preservatives, which makes these a good option for those who have an allergy or are sensitive to preservatives in other contact solutions. However, these hydrogen peroxide solutions are not risk-free.

How to Properly Use Hydrogen Peroxide-Containing Contact Solution

Always read all warning labels and instructions. Typically, contact solutions that contain hydrogen peroxide include a red warning label and a red bottle tip. These specific bottle features are included to remind users that these products require special handling.

Never apply hydrogen peroxide directly to your eyes or onto your contact lenses. Solutions containing hydrogen peroxide can result in stinging, burning and damage to your eyes. In fact, these contact solutions can damage the cornea, which is the clear surface that covers the eye.

Always follow the disinfecting process correctly with a “neutralizer.” Hydrogen peroxide-containing solution will include a neutralizer that turns the hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen and, in turn, makes it safe to put the contact lenses into your eyes. This neutralization process can be done in one or two steps. Regardless of the process, always follow the instructions as directed to avoid eye injury.

The FDA has received reports of adverse events associated with the use hydrogen peroxide-containing contact solutions. These include eye burning and eye stinging.

To avoid adverse events, always use these products as directed. If you have questions or concerns, contact your eye-care provider. Report any adverse events or problems with these products to the FDA’s MedWatch Program.

What Other Steps Can I Take to Avoid Eye Infections and Eye Injury?

Before you choose a cleaning and disinfecting method for your contact lenses, ask your eye-care provider.

Do not change your contact care routine without first speaking to your eye-care provider.

Always read all of the instructions on the contact solution box and bottle — and follow them carefully.

If you have any questions about caring for your contacts, stop and contact your eye-care provider.

Do NOT share contact solution that contains hydrogen peroxide. Others may confuse your solution with multipurpose solution and not follow the specific instructions required for hydrogen peroxide-containing contact solution. This could lead to eye damage.

Use the contact lens case that comes with the new bottle of contact solution. Using an old contact lens case may not neutralize the peroxide and, in turn, could cause burning, stinging and irritation of the eyes when you insert your contact lenses.

Leave your contacts in the contact solution for at least six hours to ensure the neutralizing process has been completed.

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